The energetic and colorful Los Angeles rapper, Rank Rated, recently released the music video for his single, “Baggage.” Flashing his trademark yellow and green dreadlocks, Rank delivers his message clearly. He is “Ranking Up” to be a full time rapper and create better music for the people. That means concentrating on doing things that will catapult him to the next level. That doesn’t include working in retail any longer.
Packed with his official features and over 30 freestyle videos, Rank’s YouTube channel has garnered nearly 24,000 views in a short time. Rank filmed his latest video at a dollar store after leaving his job there. He and his videographer were skeptical about their chances – they thought the police might be called in. But Rank was determined to deliver his message from there and make the video happen in that store.
“Baggage” of course, has a double meaning. The song is a combination of Rage Rap and just-having-fun music that discusses the baggage which Rank brings with him from his early days. Sleeping in his car, Rank was working to save money for studio time and the “Baggage” video production. There’s also the literal bag of clothes he has hauled while moving around. “Conveying double meaning was easy ‘cause I got a lotta baggage with me,” Rank said. “I’m literally bringing everything I have which is my experience, my know-how and my ambition.” Now, he is focused on getting his bag (of money) and getting to the next level to trade up for some luxury baggage.
Rank’s “Far From Regular” EP was released previously to give people a taste and to gather feedback about his music. By asking for comments, he is able to create what his listeners really want to jam to. “Baggage” represents the lane that Rank is continuing on.
Rank has moved around Southern California, Northern California and the Midwest during his life. Moving around had allowed Rank to see different places and cultures beyond the hood which helped to change his ear. Initially influenced by rock bands and the skateboard scene, his eclectic music tastes now include Jazz and Indian music, among other genres.
Some rappers don’t share their honest back story about working a day job or sleeping in a car. They only want you to see them as rappers. Rank is keeping it real, saying “I want you to see me as somebody who you can support and feel inspired by. If I did it, you can do it, too.” Rank Rated hopes listeners are inspired to stream his music while listening to their favorite artists and to support him because he is trying to make a change. Grateful for his followers, Rank wants to be able to give back with giveaways and more once things get rolling.
His message is consistent and straightforward: “Rank up!” Get that status, and have an influence on what happens in the world. “Just Rank Up and be the best you can be.”
